Admittedly, the Cavs are a much safer bet to reach that point in the postseason, but Charlotte has looked like the second-best team out East throughout different stretches of the year.

New Year’s Eve is a good opportunity for the Hornets to prove their worth in a top-heavy conference.

*All statistics, rankings, standings and trends are current as of this writing at 3:30 a.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavaliers enter this contest coming off a win against another Eastern Conference contender.

They took down the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, but they also blew a big lead after getting comfortable in the fourth quarter — the exact same thing that the Golden State Warriors were criticized for in their Christmas Day showdown with the Cavs.

So far this year, Charlotte is averaging 104.8 points per contest. That number is good enough for 16th in the league.

Defensively, the Hornets are top 10 in terms of both points allowed and defensive efficiency. They are giving up 102 points per game, which is good enough for ninth, and their defensive efficiency is fifth.

Against the Cavs, it’s that defense that’s going to be the most important in terms of strategy. You know that at least two of the Big Three of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love are going to put up big-time numbers.

Containing at least one can make a world’s difference, but stopping the complementary pieces from having an impact might be the single-most important part of the blueprint when facing a team with superstars who you know are going to produce.

NBA Betting Trends:

Cavaliers are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 vs. NBA Southeast.

Cavaliers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.

Cavaliers are 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 vs. Eastern Conference.

Cavaliers are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.

Hornets are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.

Hornets are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 Saturday games.

Free Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Charlotte Hornets NBA Prediction:

Coming off a win but with plenty to prove, it’s easy to see how the Cavaliers walk away with a victory against the Hornets.

4* Free NBA Betting Pick: Check back soon for a free pick ATS.

Don’t be shocked if Charlotte keeps this one close throughout, but don’t be surprised when the Cavs pull away late.

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